Villages in the Tharu community in Kanchanpur district have begun the process of selecting a Barghar, a community leader, following the Maghi festival celebrations. The Tharu community has been selecting a Barghar, also known as Bhalmansa, for generations.

The Barghar is a social leader chosen annually to guide the community in various social and developmental activities. Along with the Barghar, the Tharu settlements are also selecting a Guruwa (priest), his assistant (Kesauka), and a messenger (Chirakya).

"The best performers have a chance to serve again, but a new leader is chosen if the previous one is not favored," said Shov Khuna, a resident of Krishnapur Municipality-2 in Kanchanpur district. He also mentioned that the Barghar is usually selected by consensus within the community.

Barghar holds a prestigious role in the Tharu community, as he is responsible for preserving traditional arts and culture and supporting the implementation of developmental activities. "People's representatives consult the Barghar to develop and implement plans. Inviting Barghar for public participation and gatherings is an age-old tradition," said Narendra Prasad Chaudhary, Chairman of Shuklaphanta Municipality-3.

Dhan Bahadur Chaudhary, who was recently selected as Barghar for the Bani community in Krishnapur Municipality-2, expressed his commitment to work impartially. "I have been entrusted with the responsibility to establish a set of rules and maintain order," he said, adding that he would work on organizing worship at shrines, forming musical teams, and coordinating social events, including weddings.

As per tradition, community members are expected to adhere to the Barghar's decisions, and each household contributes a certain amount of royalty or food to the Barghar.

The Barghar tradition is widely practiced across Tharu communities in the districts of Banke, Bardiya, Dang, Kailali, and Kanchanpur. Some local governments have also worked to systematize the Barghar selection process through legislation at their rural municipal assemblies.